PMI Guide · 2026

PMI Costs by Loan Amount & Credit Score

Monthly private mortgage insurance on conventional loans with less than 20% down.

When does PMI apply? Conventional loans with less than 20% down payment require PMI until you reach 20% equity. Rates below are estimated monthly PMI based on 5–10% down.
Loan Amount 760+ Excellent 700–759 Good 660–699 Fair 620–659 Poor
$250,000 $98/mo $135/mo $178/mo $240/mo
$350,000 $138/mo $189/mo $249/mo $336/mo
$450,000 $177/mo $243/mo $320/mo $432/mo
$550,000 $216/mo $297/mo $391/mo $528/mo

7-year PMI cost ($350K, 680 score)

$20,916 total wasted

How to eliminate PMI

20% down or refinance at 20% equity

FHA alternative

MIP ~$212/mo often lasts the full loan

VA loan (eligible veterans)

$0 PMI never required

💡 Save thousands before you buy

Raising your credit score from 660 to 740 before applying can cut PMI by $60–$110/month on a $350K loan. On a 7-year timeline, that's $5,000–$9,000 back in your pocket.